A prosecution is initiated by which action?

Initiating a prosecution involves formally setting legal proceedings in motion. Swearing to an information is a critical step where an individual, typically a police officer or a designated official, attests to the factual basis for the prosecution in a written document. This information sets forth the essential details of the alleged offence and is presented before a judge, allowing the court to recognize that there is sufficient reason to proceed with charges against a defendant.

This action serves as the foundation for the legal process that follows, which may include arraignment, hearings, or trials. It essentially translates the accusation into a formal process, signaling that the matter is ready to be addressed by the criminal justice system. Each of the other actions mentioned, such as filing a motion, issuing a warrant, or submitting a plea, occur later in the legal process after prosecution has already been initiated.